Samburu & The Mara: Supreme Saruni Safari

Northern Kenya is one of Africa’s last true wilderness areas. The absence of fences makes it one of the few places left that allows for the free movement of wildlife across a vast area. A red landscape dominated by acacia-grassland, with dramatic dry upland forests rising from its plains, it is home to a wide diversity of species. Inhabited by pastoral tribes with rich traditional histories that are collectively striving both to protect its ecological integrity and their own livelihoods, there is no better way for visitors to experience the real Africa.

Kalama Community Conservancy lies in an area of 95 000 hectares in Samburu land, west of Archer’s Post. With a population of only 2 000, the main livelihood in the area is livestock, mostly camels and goats. Centered around a core conservation area of 3 150 hectares, Kalama represents a crucial migratory corridor between northern and southern conservation areas of this spectacular region of Kenya.

Samburu is a great wildlife destination known for its rare species, its population of predators, and the large herds of elephants. The Ewaso Nyiro River offers a lifeline to the wildlife of this arid region. Guests are guided by Samburu warriors who are passionate about their land and their culture, learning first-hand about their fascinating customs and traditions and their ancient, local knowledge. The vastness and purity of this landscape, combined with the untouched local culture, elegant comfort, and welcoming hospitality makes for an intimate, exceptional and life-changing experience.

Saruni Samburu is a luxurious, eco-chic safari lodge set in the heart of Kalama Conservancy, offering breathtaking views of Mount Kenya and Kenya's Northern Frontier District. Nestled in over 200 000 acres of pristine wilderness, the lodge is the only one in this vast, wildlife-rich area, ensuring an exclusive and intimate safari experience. With six spacious villas perched on a dramatic viewpoint, Saruni Samburu promises unmatched tranquillity and immersion in nature.

Activities & Highlights
Saruni Samburu offers a wide array of activities that allow guests to tailor their experience. Embark on day and night game drives to witness the area's abundant wildlife, enjoy picnic breakfasts along the Ewaso Nyiro River, or experience magical bush dinners in a dry riverbed illuminated by firelight and traditional Samburu dances. Guests can also explore the wilderness on guided bush walks, visit local villages, and discover ancient Samburu rock art in nearby caves. For photography enthusiasts, the lodge's elephant-proof, sunken hide provides exceptional opportunities to capture wildlife such as elephants, hyenas, leopards, and various bird species as they visit the nearby waterhole.

For those seeking relaxation, Saruni Samburu offers two serene pools, rejuvenating treatments in the Samburu Wellbeing Space, and the chance to browse local artifacts in the boutique. As night falls, guests can unwind under the vast, starlit skies, immersing themselves in the calm of the African wilderness.

Accommodation
The lodge's villas are designed with open, airy spaces that seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings. Each villa boasts a large, en-suite bedroom, a spacious living room, and an expansive deck that offers sweeping views. The outdoor shower, private dining area, and distinctive design elements make each stay at Saruni Samburu truly memorable. A short stroll from the main dining area, lower pool, and Wellbeing Space, the villas provide both privacy and easy access to the lodge's amenities, ensuring a perfect balance of seclusion and convenience.

Tucked away in a secluded valley within the Mara North Conservancy, Saruni Mara is a small, luxury lodge. This exclusive conservancy, owned by the local community, borders the famous Masai Mara National Reserve and provides guests with unrivalled privacy and exclusivity. Perched on a hill, the lodge offers stunning views of the sweeping Mara plains, surrounded by lush indigenous forest teeming with wildlife.

Activities & Highlights
Saruni Mara is renowned for its immersive and enriching safari experiences. Game drives through the Mara North Conservancy, which is part of the larger Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, are filled with extraordinary wildlife sightings. This region boasts the highest density of predators and plains game in the world and is on the migratory path of the breathtaking Great Wildebeest Migration. Guests can also participate in the lodge’s signature ‘Warriors Academy,’ learning the survival skills of the Masai and gaining deep insights into their connection with the land and its wildlife. Evenings are spent around the campfire, where stories of the day’s adventures are shared.

Accommodation
Saruni Mara’s four spacious cottages are perched on a hill, offering sweeping views of the Masai Mara plains. Each cottage is beautifully furnished with traditional African décor and features a large bedroom, en-suite bathroom, and a front deck perfect for relaxing or stargazing. The cottages are designed to provide maximum comfort while blending seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment, offering an authentic safari experience with modern luxury.